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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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passable quality

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "passable quality" is correct and usable in written English
It can be used to describe something that is of acceptable or satisfactory quality, though not exceptional. Example: "The restaurant's food was of passable quality, but I expected more from such a highly rated place."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

By contrast, Verizon, AT& T and other carriers that operate conventional circuit-switched public networks provide reliable service with passable voice quality.

I could hear the compression on recordings, but the quality is certainly passable.

News & Media

TechCrunch

In this model, producers often make the same amount whether the product is at the passable level or of the highest quality.

News & Media

Huffington Post

Desserts — a passable apple crisp and a supermarket-quality carrot cake — were disappointing, but our waitress was smart and attentive.

News & Media

The New York Times

While I'm no audiophile, I like to think I have at least a passable ear when it comes to audio quality.

News & Media

TechCrunch

Video quality on either one will be passable.

News & Media

TechCrunch

Earlier in the month, we reported ArcSoft's SimHD technology, a video enhancement technology that supposedly could take DVD quality video and make it into passable 1080p.

News & Media

TechCrunch

The quality of daily and weekly summaries are passable.

News & Media

TechCrunch

To appease the right wing of his right wing party who permit him to remain leader, he's had to tamp down all the qualities that made him seem like a passable candidate.

News & Media

Vice

Furthermore, while passable, this porterhouse steak couldn't compete with the freshness and quality offered by the best of the big steakhouses.

News & Media

The New York Times

I'm currently the owner of a Toshiba HD DVD player and find it to be passable, though I miss the snappiness of my old DVD player, the image quality is stellar.

News & Media

TechCrunch
Show more...

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "passable quality" when you want to convey that something is acceptable or satisfactory without being exceptional. It's suitable for describing items or services that meet a minimum standard.

Common error

Avoid using "passable quality" in contexts where excellence is expected or desired. Instead, opt for terms like "excellent quality" or "superior quality" to convey a higher standard.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

87%

Authority and reliability

4.1/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "passable quality" functions as a descriptive term. It combines an adjective ("passable") with a noun ("quality") to denote a level of adequacy or acceptability without implying excellence. As Ludwig AI has indicated, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English, even if not commonly encountered.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

0%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

News & Media

0%

Science

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "passable quality" describes something that is adequate but not exceptional. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct. The phrase is most suitable for neutral contexts where conveying a sense of just-meeting-expectations is appropriate. When higher standards are desired, alternatives such as "excellent quality" or "superior quality" are preferable. Although not very common, the phrase is readily understood and serves a specific communicative purpose. Therefore, it can be used with confidence when the situation warrants it.

FAQs

How can I use "passable quality" in a sentence?

You can use "passable quality" to describe something that is adequate but not exceptional. For example, "The hotel offered rooms of "acceptable quality", though nothing luxurious."

What can I say instead of "passable quality"?

You can use alternatives like ""acceptable quality"", "adequate quality", or "satisfactory quality" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "passable quality" or "decent quality"?

"Passable quality" and "decent quality" are both correct, but "passable" suggests something is just good enough, while "decent" implies a slightly higher level of satisfaction.

What is the difference between "passable quality" and "high quality"?

"Passable quality" indicates that something meets a minimum standard without being exceptional, while "high quality" suggests that something is superior or excellent.

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Source & Trust

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Authority and reliability

4.1/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

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